Chapter 10

I started my car after the second try and made my way over to Casey’s apartment. It was a studio on the top floor in an Old Town building. Beautiful hardwood floors, radiator heating, and simple curved archways.

I hauled my suitcase up the stairs—the elevator was out of service, probably permanently. As I approached, I could hear soft guitar music coming from behind the door. I listened for a moment, smiling to myself. He didn’t play guitar often, but he was wonderful. I’d often thought about asking him if he would be willing to play while I sang, once, just to see how it sounded.

I sighed and knocked on the door. The music stopped and moments later, Casey appeared, wearing his tank top and baggy lounge pants. He took in the suitcase and my expression and his face darkened.

“That son of a bitch. I’m gonna—”

“Don’t. It was kind of mutual. I’m sad, but I’m not…that sad. I think it wasn’t supposed to last.”